Body & Paint
The key factors surrounding this decision rest on the need for originality, amount of damage (if any) to be rectified and the availability of replacement panels.
A rigorous attention to detail, careful shaping, filing, priming, flatting and guide coating is necessary to achieve the end results demanded of a Bespoke DBS.
Your Bespoke model will also benefit from a full bare metal respray to bring it back to better than new condition. We use the latest computer based technology, skill and experience, together with an enormous selection of paint codes to offer the widest range of colours imaginable.
Bumpers and window trims etc are all re-chromed to the highest possible standard on all Bespoke models.
Panel replacement versus repair?
The key factors surrounding this decision rest on the need for originality, amount of damage (if any) to be rectified and the availability of replacement panels.
On all Bespoke models we would generally replace the entire panel work forward of the A-Post and from the B-post to the rear with a totally new panel structure, leaving only the roof as original. Door skins are routinely replaced, and the same, depending on their state, for bonnet and boot.
A rigorous attention to detail, careful shaping, filing, priming, flatting and guide coating is necessary to achieve the end results demanded of a Bespoke DBS.
Your Bespoke model will also benefit from a full bare metal respray to bring it back to better than new condition. We use the latest computer based technology, skill and experience, together with an enormous selection of paint codes to offer the widest range of colours imaginable.
Bumpers and window trims etc are all re-chromed to the highest possible standard on all Bespoke models.
Chassis
Dealing with the chassis correctly is paramount to a successful Bespoke project.
The original chassis of the donor DBS will be stripped bare and shot blasted to reveal any areas of corrosion. The corroded sections are then cut out and replaced. All internal sections are then treated with weld-through primer.
The original chassis of the donor DBS will be stripped bare and shot blasted to reveal any areas of corrosion. The corroded sections are then cut out and replaced. All internal sections are then treated with weld-through primer.
Engine
All Bespoke DBS models include the very latest enhancements and upgrades developed by Aston Workshop, and each engine we build carries with it the expectations of the talented technicians involved in the re-build. We never settle for second best, and this is immediately apparent upon inspection of these incredible engines.
We encourage our Bespoke owners to stipulate final engine specifications after careful consultation with our industry leading experts.
At Aston Workshop we can produce engines which far surpass original reliability and performance.
With the benefit of modern materials, machining techniques and oils we regularly build high performance engines to the highest specification, a perfect example of what can be achieved when starting from scratch, using modern upgraded parts and appropriate modifications.
All Bespoke DBS models include the very latest enhancements and upgrades developed by Aston Workshop, and each engine we build carries with it the expectations of the talented technicians involved in the re-build. We never settle for second best, and this is immediately apparent upon inspection of these incredible engines.
We encourage our Bespoke owners to stipulate final engine specifications after careful consultation with our industry leading experts.
Suspension
By adjusting damper settings, different suspension settings and spring rates and optimising these in conjunction with modern radial tyres, it becomes possible to tailor the handling characteristics to suit.
Replacing rear lever arm dampers with telescopic dampers, eliminates what has now become an obsolete component. Furthermore, it is yet another significant step forward in achieving modern standards of ride comfort, safety and handling.
We are also working towards being able to offer in-car adjustable dampers on Bespoke models. This offers exciting possibilities allowing the driver to optimise handling according to road conditions at the time.
Finally, there is the wider question of wheel & tyre choice. At the end of the day, this is a personal decision, and while we will recommend certain options that we know work well, the choice inevitably must be down to the owner.
Each model in the Bespoke range has a slightly different set-up and each individual car can be set to the specification of the owner.
This is not a decision to be taken lightly, and you will be fully informed and advised by our expert team at the time of commissioning.
Modern gas filled dampers (adjustable in some cases), progressive rate springs and modern radial tyres have transformed the handling characteristics of modern cars.
These dampers are now available to classic car owners too and are fitted as standard on all Bespoke models.
By adjusting damper settings, different suspension settings and spring rates and optimising these in conjunction with modern radial tyres, it becomes possible to tailor the handling characteristics to suit.
Replacing rear lever arm dampers with telescopic dampers, eliminates what has now become an obsolete component. Furthermore, it is yet another significant step forward in achieving modern standards of ride comfort, safety and handling.
We are also working towards being able to offer in-car adjustable dampers on Bespoke models. This offers exciting possibilities allowing the driver to optimise handling according to road conditions at the time.
Finally, there is the wider question of wheel & tyre choice. At the end of the day, this is a personal decision, and while we will recommend certain options that we know work well, the choice inevitably must be down to the owner.
Each model in the Bespoke range has a slightly different set-up and each individual car can be set to the specification of the owner.
This is not a decision to be taken lightly, and you will be fully informed and advised by our expert team at the time of commissioning.
Transmission
Thanks to our vast experience and some clever designs we have developed both steering and transmission enhancements that not only offer increased performance and safety but are also thankfully very discreet.
On the Bespoke DBS we can offer the following:
4 speed auto
The standard 3-speed automatic transmission can be upgraded to a ZF 4-speed, offering greater flexibility and economy as well as an all-round improvement in the driving experience.
Standard 5 speed manual
The original, standard 5-speed ZF transmission can be fully re-built or refurbished to owners specification.
New Tremec T-5 manual
A brand new unit, the T-5 from Tremec can also be specified. The T-5 uses an aluminium case and aluminium shift forks with an internal single-rail shift system. All forward gears are fully synchronised using carbon-fibre type synchroniser materials to make silky smooth shifts. Tapered roller bearings are used to minimise noise and improve efficiency.
Toyota Supra 5 speed
As incongruous as it may seem these units from Toyota have been fitted to many of our world leading restorations and have proven to be not only very reliable but also very easy to use day-to-day, making the Bespoke DBS more modern in feel without altering the interior in any way.
New 6-speed ZF manual
This system is perhaps the most modern offering we have at present. This close-ratio 6-speed ZF unit is best suited to track days and the DBS in particular.
We are also developing a new multi-speed electronic gearbox as an option for our Bespoke models, availability to be announced.
Axle options:
A choice of ratios are available to the owner's specification.
As with many automotive systems, advances in design and materials have transformed the performance and safety of our classic Astons.
Thanks to our vast experience and some clever designs we have developed both steering and transmission enhancements that not only offer increased performance and safety but are also thankfully very discreet.
On the Bespoke DBS we can offer the following:
4 speed auto
The standard 3-speed automatic transmission can be upgraded to a ZF 4-speed, offering greater flexibility and economy as well as an all-round improvement in the driving experience.
Standard 5 speed manual
The original, standard 5-speed ZF transmission can be fully re-built or refurbished to owners specification.
New Tremec T-5 manual
A brand new unit, the T-5 from Tremec can also be specified. The T-5 uses an aluminium case and aluminium shift forks with an internal single-rail shift system. All forward gears are fully synchronised using carbon-fibre type synchroniser materials to make silky smooth shifts. Tapered roller bearings are used to minimise noise and improve efficiency.
Toyota Supra 5 speed
As incongruous as it may seem these units from Toyota have been fitted to many of our world leading restorations and have proven to be not only very reliable but also very easy to use day-to-day, making the Bespoke DBS more modern in feel without altering the interior in any way.
New 6-speed ZF manual
This system is perhaps the most modern offering we have at present. This close-ratio 6-speed ZF unit is best suited to track days and the DBS in particular.
We are also developing a new multi-speed electronic gearbox as an option for our Bespoke models, availability to be announced.
Axle options:
A choice of ratios are available to the owner's specification.
Brakes
Advances in design and materials have transformed brake performance and safety and we ensure the benefits afforded are available on all Bespoke models.
The following upgrade can be fitted to all DBS Bespoke models, greatly enhancing safety and handling under braking.
The A.P. Racing upgrade offers ventilated discs and increased capacity calipers. The result is a massive increase in reliability and stopping power, the ultimate set up and the recommended set-up of choice for all Bespoke DBS models.
When building a car such as the Bespoke DBS, it's absolutely essential that the brakes be upgraded or enhanced to the very best specification possible in order to match its all-round improvement in performance.
Advances in design and materials have transformed brake performance and safety and we ensure the benefits afforded are available on all Bespoke models.
The following upgrade can be fitted to all DBS Bespoke models, greatly enhancing safety and handling under braking.
The A.P. Racing upgrade offers ventilated discs and increased capacity calipers. The result is a massive increase in reliability and stopping power, the ultimate set up and the recommended set-up of choice for all Bespoke DBS models.
Electrical
Every Bespoke model will also include a high output alternator to improve reliability and capacity of the charging system. In addition to this a conversion to negative earth will be carried out to make it compatible with modern electronic equipment.
We also fit a warning buzzer to the side light system to avoid the frustration of returning to a non-starting Aston thanks to a drained battery.
In addition to this, the Bespoke range will have the following electrical upgrades available:
Electric power assisted steering
Thatcham 1 alarm system
Remote central locking
Tracker systems
Intermittent wiper/washer system
A variety of ICE options with I-pod connection and Sat Nav
HID headlight upgrades
Electronic and heated memory seats
Please contact our workshop manager to discuss model specifics.
All Bespoke DBS models will include all new wiring looms, switches, connections, relays, fuse systems etc. to ensure the reliability of all electrical components.
Every Bespoke model will also include a high output alternator to improve reliability and capacity of the charging system. In addition to this a conversion to negative earth will be carried out to make it compatible with modern electronic equipment.
We also fit a warning buzzer to the side light system to avoid the frustration of returning to a non-starting Aston thanks to a drained battery.
In addition to this, the Bespoke range will have the following electrical upgrades available:
Electric power assisted steering
Thatcham 1 alarm system
Remote central locking
Tracker systems
Intermittent wiper/washer system
A variety of ICE options with I-pod connection and Sat Nav
HID headlight upgrades
Electronic and heated memory seats
Please contact our workshop manager to discuss model specifics.
Exhaust
The choice of exhaust system can dramatically alter the character of your tailor-made car. With this in mind, we are able to offer two different options for your Bespoke DBS.
Option 1 – Original specification replacement
Standard, cast iron manifolds available with either a single or twin system.
Option 1 – Original specification replacement
Standard, cast iron manifolds available with either a single or twin system.
Optional, ceramic 'Zircotec' coating providing exceptional heat insulation.
Option 2 – Stainless Steel
Full Stainless Steel system including pipes and silencer.
Option 2 – Stainless Steel
Full Stainless Steel system including pipes and silencer.
Optional, ceramic 'Zircotec' coating providing exceptional heat insulation.
Read more about 'Zircotec' by visiting their website HERE
Read more about 'Zircotec' by visiting their website HERE
Trim
These cars are stunning to look at and drive, but the passenger environment is just as important. We pride ourselves here at Aston Workshop on the level of our craftsmanship, and nowhere is this more apparent than the interior of our Bespoke models.
The interior of your DBS will be completely re-trimmed to your specification. This includes a wide range of materials & veneers in a myriad of colour combinations.
A centre console upgrade is available as is an optional dashboard layout including a choice of instrumentation colour combinations such as red on magnolia etc.
Sound insulation upgrades are standard on all Bespoke models allowing for longer journey lengths in greater comfort.
Exterior trim includes the fitting of new glass as a matter of course, plus all chrome areas prepared and re-chromed or fully replaced where necessary.
The interior of your DBS will be completely re-trimmed to your specification. This includes a wide range of materials & veneers in a myriad of colour combinations.
A centre console upgrade is available as is an optional dashboard layout including a choice of instrumentation colour combinations such as red on magnolia etc.
Sound insulation upgrades are standard on all Bespoke models allowing for longer journey lengths in greater comfort.
Exterior trim includes the fitting of new glass as a matter of course, plus all chrome areas prepared and re-chromed or fully replaced where necessary.
Tropicalisation
Owners of our Bespoke range will experience the thrill of driving one of the world's most iconic classic cars, but that no longer means levels of discomfort associated with 'hot weather' motoring of days gone by.
Our 'Tropicalisation' upgrade was specifically developed to deal with the hottest and most humid climates on the planet, but is of course of benefit to any owner of a Bespoke model, anywhere in the world.
Your DBS will be upgraded to include a twin zone, front and rear air-conditioning system and total heat insulation of the cabin area using a specially designed woven insulation fabric hidden in the floor, roof and doors. We will also coat the exhaust manifolds and front pipes with a ceramic 'Zircotec' coating for ultimate heat insulation.
You may not be able to see it, but you will definitely notice the difference, especially when the outside temperature rises.
Our 'Tropicalisation' upgrade was specifically developed to deal with the hottest and most humid climates on the planet, but is of course of benefit to any owner of a Bespoke model, anywhere in the world.
Your DBS will be upgraded to include a twin zone, front and rear air-conditioning system and total heat insulation of the cabin area using a specially designed woven insulation fabric hidden in the floor, roof and doors. We will also coat the exhaust manifolds and front pipes with a ceramic 'Zircotec' coating for ultimate heat insulation.
You may not be able to see it, but you will definitely notice the difference, especially when the outside temperature rises.
